What are the Health Benefits of Breast Reduction?
Published on March 20, 2020 by Andrew Barnett
If you experience shortness of breath, numbness in your hands and fingers, or pressure on your shoulders from your bra straps – you may benefit from breast reduction surgery. Breast reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces the size and weight of the breasts. When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, like myself, it is a safe procedure with a short recovery period.
Although the primary goal of breast reduction is to help a woman achieve smaller, more proportionate breasts, many women experience additional benefits that significantly improve their quality of life. While a breast reduction is not guaranteed to provide these benefits in every patient, patients frequently report the following after surgery. Let’s take a look.
#1: Relief from Chronic Pain
Many women with disproportionately large breasts experience chronic physical pain in their backs, necks, and shoulders. In some cases, the pain can radiate down through the arms and fingers, limiting or restricting daily activities. By reducing your breast size, tension caused by the weight of heavy breasts can be alleviated – minimizing or even removing pain altogether.
#2: More Enjoyable Shopping Experience
Finding clothes that fit properly when you have extremely large breasts can be difficult. Most often any clothing that doesn’t pull tight across your chest (or leave gaps) is oddly-sized and hangs unflatteringly off the rest of the body. A breast reduction procedure can ease some of the stress of shopping, increasing your options and giving you more freedom to dress how you want.
#3: A Well-Balanced Figure
Some women are unhappy with the shape, size, or firmness of their large breasts. Others are self-conscious about having asymmetrical breasts. Women who have large breasts but small frames may wish for a more proportionate figure. Whichever applies to you, breast reduction surgery can give you the well-balanced figure you desire.
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#4: Improve Your Workouts
Excessively large breasts can restrict participation in sports and other activities. From getting in the way of movement to causing discomfort while jogging and working out, very large breasts prevent many women from having an active lifestyle. Even sports bras provide no relief. Once you’ve fully recovered from your breast reduction, you can have a more enjoyable workout experience.
#5: Protect Your Health
Many women experience irritation of the skin under their breasts or have breathing issues as a result of their excessively large chest. The lower breast and breast fold can be more susceptible to intertriginous rashes. A breast reduction can relieve, or prevent, these rashes.
Are You Ready for a Breast Reduction?
It isn’t necessary to live in constant pain or discomfort. You can be proactive about your body and improve your quality of life. During your consultation, I will explain the procedure so that you are fully informed about what you can expect. It’s important to be open with me about any physical and emotional issues you’ve experienced. Once you’ve had time to consider the procedure, you can make the decision that’s right for you and your health.
I cannot express how thrilled I am with Dr. Barnett and my recent breast reduction and lift. He is a true artist! Dr. Barnett explained my procedure clearly, followed up every day during my first week of recovery and the results could not be better! His staff and surgical team are top-notch. I am very grateful to Dr. Barnett and recommend him highly! Anyone considering a breast reduction should not hesitate. It took me 25 years to finally do this for myself and I’ve never been happier. But….having Dr. Barnett do this surgery is a must!
Take the Next Step
Ready to look and feel your best? Schedule a consultation with Andrew Barnett M.D. to discuss your options today. Consultations are available in both our San Francisco and Walnut Creek offices. You may schedule for either location by calling (415) 879-8735. Renee or Laurie will help you and answer any pre-consultation questions you may have!